Educational Articles
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There are several different types of malignant mammary tumors, with carcinomas being the most common. Carcinomas arise from epithelial (skin) cells, tubules of the mammary glands, or other cells found in the mammary chain. The size of the masses and their appearance may vary, but they are usually firm and nodular. Occasionally, the skin over the mass may ulcerate (open) and bleed, and the affected area may feel warm to the touch and become painful. Detecting and treating these tumors when they are small, and before spread has occurred, will provide your dog with the best chance for long-term control.
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Mast cells are a type of white blood cell that plays a large role in allergic response through degranulation. Mast cell tumors (MCT) can occur in the skin, spleen, or gastrointestinal tract of cats. Their cause is unknown; however, many affected cats show a genetic mutation in the KIT protein involved in replication and cell division. Cutaneous MCTs most often appear as hard pale/white plaques or nodules, often around the head and they may be itchy. Splenic MCTs cause decreased appetite, weight loss, and vomiting. Intestinal MCTs may cause GI upset and bloody stools, and a mass may be palpable. Diagnosis is typically achieved via fine needle aspirate although histopathology can be used. Treatment usually requires surgical removal of the masses or the spleen. Sometimes, chemotherapy or radiation is needed.
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Mast cell tumors are most common in the skin of dogs and may appear red, ulcerated, or swollen. They can be itchy and can fluctuate in size. Tumors can range from lower-grade, with minimal spread, to higher-grade, with a high risk of local invasion. Treatment usually involves surgical removal and may require supportive treatment including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and therapy to target the mutation that instigated the tumor.
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If the nerves to the colon do not function normally, the muscles of the colonic wall will not contract properly. The muscles then become stretched and the colon enlarges in diameter. Rather than being pushed into the rectum in a normal manner, fecal material accumulates in the distended colon, resulting in severe constipation called obstipation. This massive enlargement of the colon and the resulting constipation is called megacolon. Megacolon is often treatable using a medical approach but some cases require surgical intervention called subtotal colectomy.
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Muscle tears are direct or indirect traumatic injuries that cause damage to muscle tissue. The most common cause is an indirect injury or strain caused by overstretching during athletic activities, such as running or jumping. This handout discusses muscle tears in cats and reviews the causes of these injuries, the clinical signs, diagnostic testing, therapy, and expected prognosis.
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Muscle tears are direct or indirect traumatic injuries that cause damage to muscle tissue. The most common cause is an indirect injury, or strain, caused by overstretching during athletic activities, such as running or jumping. This handout discusses muscle tears in dogs and reviews the causes of these injuries, the clinical signs, diagnostic testing, therapy, and expected prognosis.
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Polyps are benign fleshy growths that originate from the cells lining a cat's nasal passages, leading to a variety of clinical signs such as sneezing, difficulty breathing, and recurrent ear infections. The various diagnostic tools and treatment approaches are explained in this handout.
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Nasopharyngeal polyps are benign idiopathic masses originating from the middle ear that extend either down the eustachian tube or into the external ear. They can cause stertor, nasal discharge, otitis, otic discharge and head tilt. Diagnosis may involve visualization through otoscopic exam or behind the soft palate, but usually needs radiographic evidence or more advanced imaging such as CT or MRI. Treatment involves debulking the mass through traction which has a high rate of recurrence, or more advanced surgery into the bulla to remove the source of the polyp.
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There are many health and behavioral benefits associated with neutering your rabbit, such as preventing unwanted pregnancies, eliminating his risk for testicular cancer, and minimizing the stress associated with sexual frustration. This handout explains the neuter procedure, post-operative care at home, and, although rare, possible complications that could occur.
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Neutering is also referred to as orchidectomy or castration. It is a surgical procedure in which the testicles are removed to sterilize or render a male animal infertile. There are many behavioral and health benefits associated with neutering your rat. Most rats are neutered between four and six months of age.
